How to get from Talkeetna to Fairbanks

Often, the best way to get from Talkeetna to Fairbanks is aboard the Alaska Railroad. We commonly book this segment for guests who are traveling roundtrip between Anchorage and Fairbanks and want to break up their trip, staying in Talkeetna on the way north and Denali on the return south. Typically, these same guests combine the Alaska Railroad with the Park Connection Motorcoach. Here's why.

8.5 hours by train | 5.5 hours by car

You will find more information below, but if you are ready to book the train online just follow this link to our Train & Bus Express Checkout.

Take the Train

The Denali Star train departs Talkeetna at 11:20 AM and arrives in Fairbanks at approximately 8:00 PM. It is a long day at nearly nine hours, but the scenery, onboard guides, and excellent meals make the miles fly by. Choose from the Adventure Class or GoldStar Dome with the Alaska Railroad, or the privately-operated dome railcars of the Wilderness Express.

Ride the Bus

Unless you are overnighting in Denali Park on your way to Fairbanks, the best option is the train rather than the bus. The Park Connection Motorcoach does travel as far north as Denali Park, and we do offer van service from Denali Park to Fairbanks, but the connection is not designed for same-day travel.

Drive Yourself

It is 275 miles from Talkeetna to Fairbanks, making it around a five and a half hour drive. There are several nice pull outs to see Mt. Denali, and many even stop at Denali State or National Park along the way. You can't rent a car in Talkeetna, but we do offer rental cars in Anchorage, including one-way Anchorage to Fairbanks rentals from a premium local supplier.